Sanford expands genomic medicine, research in Ireland

Sanford Health is expanding its collaboration with the Hermitage Medical Clinic in Ireland to include a clinical trial for cancer patients.

It will explore how genomic profiling of tumors might improve treatment options for patients with rare or advanced forms of cancer. The trial is modeled after other Sanford studies and represents the introduction of genomic testing in Ireland as a tool for determining cancer treatment.

“This is just another way we are trying to make a difference around the world,” said Dr. Jonathan Bleeker, a Sanford oncologist. “Our ability to collaborate with the providers who treat patients at Hermitage will help advance treatment options in Ireland.”

In addition, the European physicians will present results to and discuss findings with the Sanford Health genomic tumor board using real-time videoconference technology. The board is a team of experts with experience in cancer and genetics that develops personalized care plans for individual patients and uses genomic testing results as a component.

“We know from experience that our tumor board and our use of genomic medicine in cancer make a difference in developing treatment plans for patients,” said Dr. Dan Blue, executive vice president of Sanford World Clinic.

The two organizations entered into a collaborative agreement in December 2017 as part of an expansion of Sanford World Clinic, Sanford Health’s international health care arm, which is in nine countries with more than 30 locations in an effort to foster partnerships with health care leaders in the development of sustainable services around the world.

The agreement establishes a clinical research office to extend precision oncology services in Ireland through a clinical research protocol modeled around similar trials conducted by Sanford Research in the United States.

“We are committed to collaborating on a world stage,” said Kelby Krabbenhoft, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “We’re doing this through our world clinic expansion and by joining other experts internationally through research, partnerships and panel discussions to further help and heal others.”

The expanded partnership in Ireland was announced as Sanford concludes several days of presentations as part of the Unite to Cure international Vatican conference.